Stanfel's prowess on the offensive line earned him widespread recognition. He was selected to the Pro Bowl five times during his career, reflecting his status as one of the top players in his position. Additionally, he was named a First-Team All-Pro five times, underscoring his excellence and consistency on the field. His tenure with the Lions lasted until 1955, after which he was traded to the Washington Redskins.
With the Redskins, Stanfel continued to demonstrate his exceptional skills as a guard. He played with the team until 1958, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier offensive linemen of his era. His ability to protect the quarterback and create opportunities for the running game was highly regarded by teammates and opponents alike.
After retiring as a player, Stanfel transitioned into coaching, where he continued to influence the game. He began his coaching career at the University of Notre Dame, serving as an assistant coach. His expertise in offensive line play was soon recognized by the NFL, leading to coaching positions with several teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and New Orleans Saints.
Stanfel's coaching career was marked by his ability to develop and mentor players, helping them reach their full potential. His tenure with the New Orleans Saints was particularly noteworthy, as he served as the team's offensive line coach and later as the interim head coach in 1980. His leadership during this period was appreciated by the organization and players.
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